Dental Hygienist and Assistant

University of Tennessee • Memphis, TN

1d

About The Position

The Dental Hygienist and Assistant provides comprehensive preventive and therapeutic oral health care to patients while supporting interdisciplinary clinical operations in the College of Dentistry’s Tri-Clinics. This position balances direct patient care with dental assisting collaboration, recall system management, patient feedback initiatives, and community outreach. This position serves as a key contributor to patient-centered care, quality improvement, and community engagement.

Requirements

• Completion of an ADA-accredited Dental Hygiene program. (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED)
• Two (2) years of dental or oral care experience.
• TN Board of Dentistry License in Dental Hygiene
• CPR Healthcare Provider
• Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen certification.
• Knowledge of clinical dental procedures, infection control standards, and operatory preparation to effectively support dentists, dental assistants, and students in a fast‑paced clinical environment.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills are essential for managing patient recall systems, monitoring preventive‐care compliance, and evaluating patient feedback to enhance service quality and patient satisfaction.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage with patients regarding treatment recommendations, scheduling, and follow‑up care, as well as to collaborate with administrative and clinical teams.
• Ability to represent the clinic professionally in community outreach settings, provide preventive oral health education, and support mission‑driven initiatives is vital.
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively to team‑based care.

Responsibilities

• Provides comprehensive dental hygiene services, including prophylaxis, periodontal therapy, sealant application, fluoride treatments, and oral cancer screenings.
• Administers local anesthesia and nitrous oxide as permitted by licensure.
• Performs patient assessments, medical history reviews, periodontal charting, and radiographic imaging.
• Assists dentists as needed during clinical procedures to enhance patient flow and efficiency.
• Provides chairside assistance for general dentistry, pediatric, and special needs patients.
• Documents clinical findings accurately in electronic dental records.
• Establishes, maintains, and optimizes an effective patient recall and re-care system.
• Communicates with patients regarding follow-up care, treatment recommendations, and scheduling.
• Participates in community outreach programs, health fairs, and school-based oral health initiatives.
• Delivers individualized oral hygiene instruction and preventive education.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed